Best places to retire in Alberta

The Wild Rose Country's most retirement-friendly towns and cities



Are you Alberta-bound in retirement? Or are you an older Albertan looking for a smaller town to settle into? We look at a number of places in the province that are ideal for living, based on the investment, the quality of life there, and acclaim from residents themselves. Start dreaming retirement ideas here, or find confirmation that the place you have in mind is the best possible choice.

We pull together information from a variety of sources, as well as our own expertise based on over 15 years of looking closely at Canadian retirement communities.

> Find the best retirement homes in Alberta


  1. Calgary, AB

    Calgary is the jewel of Alberta. It doesn't really get its due in some list from some sources1 because some smaller towns in the province have lower unemployment or a higher median household income — factors you probably care less about when you're retired. And it's been ranked by The Economist2 as the 5th most livable in the city. If you want to be near family, near the best health care, in the best overall city in the province, Calgary's your choice.

    Within the city of Calgary there are several exceptional areas and neighbourhoods. Two of the cleaner, friendlier, more retirement-friendly neighbourhoods in the city are Rocky Ridge and the Christie Park- Signal Hill area. These are both suitably close to the outskirts, with fresh mountain air in from the west, combined with the suburban quietude and peace you crave. Money, as they say, isn't everything, and at Comfort Life we look at the overall comfort you will find in retirement, instead of the hard statistics MoneySense might look at. And we know from talking to people in neighbourhoods like Rocky Ridge that life here is wonderfully comfortable.

    Leo and Maxine Nugent moved into a retirement community here and they love the fact they are "all of a sudden free of the things tying [them] down." They love the environment in the Rocky Ridge area of Calgary. Says Leo, "We walk a mile or so every day. We can see the mountains, and we breathe that clean mountain air."

    When you choose a place to retire, you want to think ahead to how you will feel once you settle there. And in the Rocky Ridge neighbourhood of Calgary, Leo and Maxine say that after they made the move, they wondered, "Why didn't we do it five or ten years ago." If you move to a Calgary neighbourhood that makes you regret not moving there earlier, you know you've made the right choice. "Only yesterday," says Leo, "we were saying how right we were to come here."

    Check out a full list of Calgary retirement communities.

  2. Lloydminster, AB

    Lloydminster is a solid, conservative town, where people take hard work and self-discipline seriously. Given that the town was created as an attempt at a temperate utopia defined by fidelity and sobriety, you can still feel those roots here. It's a "nice place to live." You may not always feel safe in some other cities, but Gaye is one older person who found a lovely home near the center of town. She has all she needs, "easy access to shopping, medical facilities and pathways to recreational activities."

    Find a great place to retire in Lloydminster.

  3. Canmore, AB

    Canmore, just 20 kilometers outside of Banff, and a little over an hour outside of Calgary was listed as the 7th best place to live in Canada by MoneySense1, in 2018. A high average net household worth in a small town setting, with a number of other great qualities (for example, low unemployment, low property taxes, and a decreasing crime rate that is already low) make this an attractive place to live. For those who are retirement age, though, there are different considerations. Canmore is in the mountains, a little removed from major centres and there is a greater availability of high quality health care, in places like Calgary.

    Canmore is also home to one of the most spectacular retirement communities outside of Calgary. Amelia moved here from out of the area, to be closer to family. For her, it's all about the friends she's made. "You socialize here, every day, it's so easy. I used to eat alone, and within ten minutes your breakfast is over. Now it’s an hour and a half, and I’m still having breakfast! Second cup of coffee … third cup of coffee because you’re surrounded by people your own age. It’s so healthy!"

    Find top places to retire in Canmore.

  4. Edmonton

    Edmonton is the 68th highest rated place to live in Canada, according to MoneySense1. As a major centre, it offers everything you need in terms of conveniences and entertainment. Of course, some of those things are less important in retirement but the high quality of health care services available in the city of Edmonton also make it attractive for those who are older. Progressive-minded Edmonton is home to several stellar new retirement communities that incorporate all that's great about contemporary retirement living.

    Find the best places to retire in Edmonton.

  5. Strathcona County, AB

    Strathcona County, just east of Edmonton, is ranked #59 on the overall list of best places to live in Canada, by MoneySense, in 20181. As with a number of Alberta communities, it's highly rated for its low unemployment and high median household income. Those factors, though, may be less important to people living in retirement. That said, Strathcona County offers much for people later in life who may be more comfortable with a slower pace and quieter lifestyle. There is Sherwood Park surrounded by large rural areas and smaller hamlets in the county, all perfect places for those looking for peaceful digs. There are great things to do in Strathcona itself (like taking in some great shows at Festival Place) but there is also the proximity to Edmonton.

    Find top places to retire in Strathcona County.

  6. St. Albert, AB

    St. Albert is selected by MoneySense as the fifth best place to live in Alberta, and 19th overall in Canada1. Why is St. Albert so highly rated? It's a small town where people have a high income and high average net worth. Other factors that make this ideal are great access to health care and a low crime rate. "The Botanical Arts City," just northwest of Edmonton, is also highly rated for its low rate of unemployment. St. Albert is just a beautiful spot to settle into retirement, and has a moderate population just above 60,000. If you are looking for a peaceful town3 close to the attractions and options available in a major center (while removed from the noise and busyness at the same time), St. Albert is indeed a great place to retire.

    There are a number of active adult lifestyle communities near here.

  7. Claresholme, Alberta

    You might not find it on any other list of best places, because Claresholme is one of the best kept secrets in Alberta. This small town (population 3,780 and counting!) features one of the most progressive-minded retirement villages in the country. It consists entirely of bungalows, ideally designed for people who think life is better without stairs to climb. It’s "top notch," brags one resident.

    Small towns like this are an ideal retirement destination for people from Calgary and Edmonton, who can easily use the equity from homes to purchase a home here that’s ideally suited to who they are now. Here, life is simpler, land is cheaper, and the living is easier. Claresholme also stands out for an ideally humid continental climate, while winter’s chinook winds can suddenly raise the temperature to well above freezing. Visit soon, and you could find yourself agreeing wholeheartedly with the town’s motto, "now you’re living … now you’re home."

    Find a great place to retire in Claresholm.


Home care
As you look ahead, consider how home care services will help you age in place.

No one can say for sure what is the best place to retire for you. Most people have their own ideas about what makes an ideal place to live and those values have very little to do with money. The need to be close to family may supersede all other considerations when it comes to deciding on a place to retire. That said, it’s nice to know that the place you have in mind is considered a good place to live. And you can make any place you live the best place for you, by bringing out what is great in your environment and focusing on the positives that you see. In any case, we say happy searching… and happy retiring!

Sources and further resources

1moneysense.ca/../canadas-best-places-to-live-25-2018/. MoneySense did not release figures for 2019.
2"The Economist ranks Calgary as the 5th most livable city in the world." dailyhive.com/../the-economist-calgary-5th-most-livable-city-in-the-world
3 business.financialpost.com/../small-towns-can-offer-big-savings-for-retirees: The Financial Post and others list the best places to retire in Canada, based on other criteria.
4 theglobeandmail.com/…/how-moving-to-a-small-town-can-fund-your-retirement/. This story's cautionary take is based on one person's experience moving from Toronto to a smaller town in Ontario.

The best retirement homes in Alberta, as chosen by Comfort Life


The Manor Villages StayWell Manor  

174 Ypres Green SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2T 6M2

Staywell Manor Village offers elegant retirement living in the heart of Calgary. Whether you are looking for independent living, assisted living or memory care, we have lifestyle options to meet your needs.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care

The Manor Village at Fish Creek Park  

22 Shawnee Hill S.W., Calgary, Alberta, T2Y 0P8

Within walking distance of one of Calgary’s finest parks in SW Calgary, this unique all-inclusive community provide a wide range of services and amenities for every lifestyle choice.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Chartwell Fountains of Mission Retirement Residence  

222 25th Avenue South West, Calgary, Alberta, T2S 3E9

Enjoy an exceptional retirement lifestyle centred on convenience, culture and the comfort of family.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living

Chartwell Wescott Retirement Residence  

3841 Allan Drive SW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6W 4B8

An upscale retirement community with art studio, pool, yoga room and more. Located in Ambleside (Windermere) in south Edmonton with convenient access to coffee shops, grocery stores, restaurants and shopping.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Memory Care

Garneau Hall Seniors Community  

10923 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2N9

Located in the heart of the Garneau district of Edmonton, Garneau Hall offers seniors a caring environment with the added comforts of home and the opportunity for an enriched new life.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Garrison Green by United Active Living  

3028 Don Ethell Boulevard SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3E 0C9

At Garrison Green by United Active Living, we offer memory care, independent, and assisted living. Enjoy spacious suites, in-suite laundry, fitness studio, art studio, flexible dining, underground parking and much more!

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Chartwell Heritage Valley Retirement Residence  

944 James Mowatt Trail SW, Edmonton, Alberta, T6W 2B2

The lifestyle at Chartwell Heritage Valley is ideal for active & independent individuals. Spend your time exactly how you choose in an airy atmosphere with natural light. Flexible private support services also available.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

The Lodge at Valley Ridge - Verve Senior Living  

11479 Valley Ridge Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B5V5

At The Lodge at Valley Ridge, you'll enjoy spacious suites, impressive cuisine, and exceptional services. We have recently renovated. We welcome the opportunity to show you our great community.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Trinity Lodge - Verve Senior Living  

1111 Glenmore Trail SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2V 4C9

Trinity Lodge Retirement Residence combines the elegance & style of a fine traditional hotel, with the security & warmth associated with senior living. Homecare staff is available 24/7 to give you support when needed.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Emerald Gardens Retirement Residence  

10402-111 Street, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8V 8G4

A premier retirement community located in the heart of Grande Prairie, Alberta focused on independent living. Emerald Gardens provides quality services to enhance your current lifestyle.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living

Aster Gardens  

7 Brower Drive, Sherwood Park, Alberta, T8H 1Y7

Aster Gardens, an Optima Living community, opened in March 2021, we are transforming Senior's living. You are going to love living here....Let Us Welcome You Home!

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Memory Care

Dr. Hemstock Retirement Residence and Hearthstone Place Verve Senior Living  

4202 54 Ave, Lloydminster, Alberta, T9V 2Z3

At Dr. Hemstock Residence & Hearthstone Place, our highly-skilled group of health care professionals and qualified staff are here to do whatever we can to ensure that all your needs are taken care of.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Prince of Peace  

300 Prince of Peace Way, Rocky View County, Alberta, T1X 1G2

Prince of Peace a variety of suites styles with kitchenettes and incredible mountain views. It's the perfect residence for seniors who are active, require some assistance, or have memory care needs.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Lake Bonavista Village - Verve Senior Living  

11800 Lake Fraser Drive SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2J7G8

Lake Bonavista Village Retirement Residence is the perfect place for seniors to retire. You can choose from a variety of suite sizes in the main building or one of our unique cottages.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Evanston Summit  

150 Evanspark Manor NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3P 0N4

A Catholic non-profit residence focusing on providing a lifestyle for independent seniors who appreciate the opportunity to live stress-free, with like-minded, active older adults.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living

The Wellington Retirement Residence  

1595 Southview Drive SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 0A1

As a premier Park Place multi-level care residence, The Wellington provides Independent and Supportive Living options for seniors seeking to maintain your independence while enjoying access and services to amenities.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Riverwalk Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living  

528 25 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta, V2S 0L5

Riverwalk Retirement Residence is centrally located in the Cliff Bungalow-Mission community of Calgary. We offer a continuum of care including Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Trico LivingWell  

7670 4A St SW #100, Calgary, Alberta, T2V 4S3

Trico LivingWell is designed to empower older adults to live their best lives by facilitating inclusivity and togetherness through a holistic health, empathetic and personalized approach to aging.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care

Verve Aspen Woods  

10 Aspenshire Dr., SW Calgary, Alberta, T3H 0T2

Located in one of Calgary’s most desirable neighbourhoods, with the Rocky Mountains outside and beautifully appointed amenities within, Verve Aspen Woods offers the perfect setting for your active enjoyment of life.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Wild Rose  

9612 - 172nd Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5T 6C7

At Optima Living, we offer a tailored approach where the resident is the focus of all of our endeavours and we strive to fulfil all our residents’ needs so that they can live their best possible life!

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living

River Ridge Seniors Village  

#4 River Ridge Dr. N.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 8V1

A premier Park Place residence in the heart of Medicine Hat offering independent living, supportive living, and long term care options. With spectacular views and services, River Ridge is a warm place to call home.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Long-term care

Boardwalk Retirement Community  

3520 31 St. NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2L 2A5

Welcome to the BRC, a beautiful assisted living facility located in the heart of Calgary's NW. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are safe and cared for with our friendly and passionate staff.

Lifestyle Options: Independent Living



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